Moody's says cartel charges facing ANZ are credit negative

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SYDNEY (Reuters) - Cartel conduct charges that Australia’s consumer watchdog said it expects to file against Australia and New Zealand Banking Group (ANZ.AX) are credit negative for the lender, according to ratings agency Moody’s.

“The consequences of the potential proceedings could be significant and would be credit negative for ANZ,” Frank Mirenzi, vice president of Moody’s Investors Service, said in emailed remarks on Friday.

“Whilst, at this stage, there is material uncertainty with respect to any potential outcomes from these proceedings, in the short-term they are likely to create further challenges for the bank’s brand and reputation.”

ANZ faces the charges over a $2.3 billion share issue in 2015, along with underwriters Deutsche Bank (DBKGn.DE) and Citigroup (C.N).